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The Carolina Panthers picked Maryland junior wide receiver D.J. Moore with the 24th pick in the 2018 NFL Draft on Thursday evening.
“I’m thrilled to be a Carolina Panther,” Moore said in a release by the school. “When that phone rang and I knew I was being selected, it was a special moment for me and my family.”
Moore was the first wide receiver selected in the draft. Alabama wide out Calvin Ridley was picked 26th by the Atlanta Falcons.
Moore is the first Maryland player to be selected in the first round since 2009 when Darrius Heyward-Bey was picked seventh by the Oakland Raiders.
Moore, who was named the 2017 Big Ten Receiver of the Year, registered 1,033 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. He has 2,027 career receiving yards–which is fifth in Maryland’s all-time record books–and 11 touchdowns.
“The Panthers are getting a special player and person,” Maryland head coach DJ Durkin said in the same release. “I couldn’t be more proud and excited for DJ and his family. I’ve seen firsthand how much hard work he’s put into becoming a great player and teammate.”
Moore was regarded as one of the top receivers in this draft class when he declared back in December. Moore saw his draft stock go up throughout the offseason.
Former Panthers receiver Steve Smith praised Moore’s playmaking and route running ability on NFL Network.
“So much hard work and sacrifice from so many went into this becoming a reality,” Moore said. “I’m going to enjoy this moment, but can’t wait to get to Carolina to start preparing for the season.”
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